HEARTY & HEALTHY
What Are The Different Types of Plant-Based Meat?
- July 6, 2023
Nowadays, more and more people around the globe are choosing to go vegan. The main reasons behind this trend are the increasing issues of climate change and animal cruelty.
In Malaysia, there are now more options available for Meat alternatives, like plant-based meat. Even famous animal rights activists, sports enthusiasts, and big companies like Google are endorsing plant-based products.
In this post, we’ll explore the different types of plant-based meat you can find in stores.
What is Plant-based Meat?
Plant-based meats are typically created to replace or reduce your regular meat consumption. They try to imitate the flavor of animal meat and give you the same feeling as though you are consuming regular meat. Dairy products like tofu were also introduced on the market as a replacement for meat.
In order to manufacture plant-based meat, the ingredients that are utilized are those that are commonly found in plant-based consumable foods.
Different types of plant-based meat
Here are some different types of plant-based meats:
Soy-based
Plant-based meats commonly incorporate Soy protein. It is highly versatile and can be transformed into products such as soy burgers, sausages, and ground “beef.”
Wheat-based
Seitan, also known as wheat meat or wheat gluten, is made from gluten protein extracted from wheat. It has a chewy texture and is often used to create mock chicken or beef products.
Legume-based
Legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and black beans are high in protein and fiber. They are frequently used in plant-based meat alternatives, providing a hearty and nutritious option.
Mushroom-based
Mushrooms possess a natural umami flavor and meaty feel, making them a popular choice for plant-based meats. They can be used to create mushroom “bacon,” “crab” cakes, and more.
Pea-based
Pea protein has gained prominence as an alternative to soy-based products. Pea-based meats include burgers, sausages, and deli slices.
Coconut-based
Coconut is typically used to create products like coconut “shrimp” or “fish” fillets. The texture and taste of coconut lend themselves well to imitating seafood dishes.
Jackfruit-based
Jackfruit has a fibrous texture that closely resembles pulled pork when cooked. It is often used as a substitute for barbecue sandwiches and tacos.
Algal-based
Algae, specifically microalgae, can be used to create plant-based seafood alternatives. Products like algae-based “shrimp” and “calamari” are emerging in the market.
The range of plant-based meats continues to expand as companies innovate and develop new products. These alternatives provide a sustainable and ethical choice and offer diverse flavors and options for those looking to embrace a plant-based diet.
Nutritional Benefits of Plant-based Meat
Plant-based meat consumption not only reduces the carbon footprint, but it also offers several nutritional benefits, such as the following:
Plant-based meat is a great alternative if you have specific festivals where you can’t or do not wish to consume meat.
They are rich in protein and help streamline your dietary requirements. They provide the much-needed variety as well.
Since the taste, look, and feel are just like regular meat, you will not miss the taste of actual meat.
If you have vegetarian friends, partying and eating them will no longer be a hassle.
How does plant-based meat affect the restaurant business?
The advent of plant-based meat substitutes has significantly impacted the restaurant business.
Here are a few ways it has impacted the restaurant industry at large:
Increased Demand
Demand for meat-free options on restaurant menus has increased. This is mainly due to the popularity of plant-based meat. Many restaurants now include meatless sides, appetizers, and plant-based meat substitutes like burgers and sausages.
New clientele
Vegetarians, vegans, and flexitarians (those who typically eat vegetables but explore options occasionally). They are among the new clientele that plant-based meat substitutes have drawn.
Adaptation
To accommodate this new demand, draw in new customers, and lessen their environmental effects, some restaurants have changed their menus to provide more plant-based options.
Cost
Although plant-based meat substitutes are typically more expensive than regular meat, restaurants may be able to charge a premium price for these selections, making them a more profitable menu item.
Innovation
Food-tech businesses are developing new plant-based meat substitutes that replicate the flavor and texture of regular meat.
Final takeaways
Eating vegetarian meat in Malaysia instead of animal meat is a healthier and more environmentally friendly way to increase nutrients.
It is perfect for vegetarians and vegans but can also be a fantastic choice for those who eat meat purely for flavor and nutrition. In fact, kitchens around the world are gradually making room for plant-based items, and this trend is set to continue for many years to come.
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The Beginner’s Guide to a Vegetarian Diet
10 Chinese New Year Recipes for Vegetarians to Enjoy
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What to Look for When Buying Vegetarian Products
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